How Authors Can Avoid Scammers or Fake Accounts

Being aware of how to identify scammers and fake accounts can make a huge difference between making it and being conned as an author

The online world is a wonderful place where authors have the opportunity to connect with readers around the world, truly allowing them to expand on their possible audience.

However, despite this positive outlook on the connectivity that the web provides authors, there is a high risk of encountering scammers and fake accounts. By this, I refer to people online who offer promises for payments, pretend to be someone else for personal gain, or pester authors to use their services.

So the questions are, how do we know how to spot them, and what to do when we do encounter them?

How do we spot fake accounts or scammers?

Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers

• If someone promises bestseller status, thousands of reviews, or massive book sales for an upfront fee, be wary.

• Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, claiming an offer is “limited time only.”

Requests for Upfront Payments Without Transparency

• Legitimate professionals provide clear contracts and portfolios.

• Be cautious of vague promises like “We’ll make your book a success!” without explaining how.

Unverified or Newly Created Accounts

• Check when the account was created. If it’s brand new with few followers or posts, it might be fake.

• Look for engagement history — real professionals interact with their audience over time.

• Check for when their posts started and how many original posts they have. Many fake accounts share other people’s posts and rarely have original posts.

Poor Grammar, Odd Wording, or Generic Messages

Many scams originate from automated bots or non-native speakers using awkward phrasing.

Common scam messages include:

• “Hello dear, I love your book! Can we discuss a business opportunity?”

• “I am a marketing expert. I can make your book famous!”

Impersonation of Industry Professionals

• Scammers often pretend to be literary agents, editors, or famous authors.

• Verify their identity by checking their official website or social media presence.

• Ask for money upfront to publish your work (you shouldn’t have to pay a publisher to publish your work).

• Real professionals also don’t typically follow many people but have lots of followers.

Unsolicited DMs or Emails Offering Services

• If someone randomly messages you about book promotions, reviews, or publishing deals, be skeptical.

• Always research their company before responding.

What to Do When You Encounter a Scammer

Don’t Engage or Respond

• The best way to deal with scammers is to ignore them. Responding, even to call them out, signals that you’re willing to engage, which may encourage more scams.

• Scammers often use emotional manipulation or pressure tactics to get a response. Don’t fall for it.

Verify Before You Trust

• If the person claims to be an industry professional, search for their website, social media accounts, or client reviews.

• Cross-check their name against scam reports in writing communities or forums like Writer Beware or Absolute Write.

Report and Block

• Most social media platforms allow you to report scam accounts. This helps protect other authors from falling victim.

• Block the account to prevent further contact.

Alert Your Writing Community

• Scammers often target multiple authors in the same circles.

• Consider posting a warning to help others avoid falling into their trap.

Protect Your Information

• Never share personal details, bank information, or unpublished work with strangers online.

• If someone asks for sensitive information, it’s a red flag.

Be Cautious of Fake Reviews & Paid Promotions

• Some scammers offer paid reviews, which violate Amazon’s policies and can lead to account penalties.

• If someone claims they can “guarantee” reviews or sales, walk away.

Trust Your Instincts

• If something feels off, it probably is. A legitimate opportunity will never require urgent decisions, vague promises, or pressure to pay upfront.

Be aware that as amazing as meeting people in the industry online can be as an author, there are many people out there doing anything to make a dollar, including scamming you.

Be sure to:

• Fact check anyone who seems off

• Trust your gut

• Don’t jump into any situations too soon or give away your work without proper process

• Warn the writing community when situations like ones mentioned arise.

Do all of these things and you can keep your work and your accounts safe.